Pirates hijack tanker sailing from India to South Africa off Somali coast
The private security firm Ambrey also said that an attack was underway, saying it targeted a Malta-flagged tanker heading from Sikka, India, to Durban, South Africa
Pirates Board Ship from India in Somalia
The British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre issued an alert over the attack, warning ships in the area.
Attackers board ship off the coast of Somalia after firing rocket-propelled grenades at it
Attackers armed with machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades boarded a Malta-flagged tanker off the coast of Somalia on Thursday. British officials and private security firms issued alerts, with Ambrey reporting the incident appeared to be an assault by Somali pirates operating in the region.
Inside Milind Soman`s luxurious 60th birthday in Maldvies
Milind Soman took to Instagram to share a carousel of photos from his 60th birthday, where he is seen shirtless on the beach and scuba diving in the waters of Maldives
Patient groups urge PM Modi to enforce Delhi HC order to establish National Fund for Rare Diseases
NEW DELHI: A leading patient group and families of children with ultra-rare diseases across India have appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to direct the Union Health Ministry to urgently implement the Delhi High Court order, which recommended establishing a National Fund for Rare Diseases (NFRD) so that dozens of children and young adults, who are on the brink of losing their lives, are not denied treatment. The cry for justice appeal, which was also addressed to Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, urged him to list and expeditiously hear the pending Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Supreme Court and to restore the October 4, 2024, order of the Delhi High Court in full. In a landmark decision, the Delhi High Court directed the centre to establish the NFRD with an allocation of Rs 974 crore and to ensure uninterrupted therapy for patients with rare diseases. However, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry filed an SLP before the Supreme Court, which is still pending. According to Manjit Singh, National President, Lysosomal Storage Disorders Support Society (LSDSS), who wrote the appeal to the prime minister and the CJI, on behalf of patient groups and families of children with ultra-rare diseases across India, the SLP is pending before the SC, thus halting relief for patients. The matter has remained pending for nearly a year while lives continue to be lost. Each week of delay is another irreversible loss. We are not asking for sympathy - we are asking for the implementation of the High Courts order that upholds our childrens right to live with dignity, he added. The case is listed in the apex court for November 7. The lack of timely central funding has forced the treatment discontinuation for over 55 patients located in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Delhi, and Karnataka. This crisis is worsening, with a growing number of patients expected to lose access to care as the delay continues, said the national patient groups. In the past two years alone, nearly 60 patients have died after exhausting the Rs. 50 lakh funding cap, said Singh. He added that over 55 patients also remain untreated for months despite being registered at Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and eligible for approved life-saving therapies. Without urgent intervention, this number will exceed 100 by year-end, he added. Urging for urgent financial assistance for patients who are at high risk of losing their lives due to a delay in decision-making, he said that this will ensure all patients whose funding is exhausted are put back on the life-saving Emergency Response Team (ERT). He also urged the immediate restoration of treatment for those who have exhausted their one-time support. They also advocated for a structural change in the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD), 2021, and to establish a permanent and sustainable funding mechanism for chronic diseases such as Group 3 (a) diseases, moving beyond the inadequate one-time cap. Under the policy, the centre provides financial and technical support for the treatment of 63 identified rare diseases in India. The key features include financial assistance of up to Rs 50 lakhs per patient for treatment at the 12 designated Centres of Excellence (CoEs), including AIIMS, Delhi. The appeal said: We, the undersigned representatives of national patient groups for Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs) and other ultra-rare diseases, write with deep anguish - and with faith in your compassion and leadership - on behalf of dozens of children and young adults who are on the brink of losing their lives. These are not children without cures; they are being denied treatment due to administrative delays and the restrictive one-time funding limit under the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD) 2021. Highlighting the anguish of the parents, whose children are suffering from rare diseases, he said, parents across India are watching their children fade after years of stability on treatment. According to Raja Murugappan, Rare Diseases Support Society, Tamil Nadu, The Rs. The 50 lakh limit was never meant to be a death sentence. We appeal to the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister to uphold the hope these families still hold. Jayanta Mudi, father of six-year-old Gaucher patient Adrija from Kolkata, said, My daughters health had improved remarkably when she was on therapy. Since treatment stopped, she has been deteriorating each day. Our children deserve a chance to live. Abul Kalam, father of 10-year-old Abdul Rehman from Delhi, added, My sons therapy stopped in September 2024. His condition is worsening, and we are helpless as the proceedings drag on. We only seek a chance for our children to live. The appeal added that the right to health and life under Article 21 is not an abstraction - it is the only hope for these children. Justice delayed in this matter will mean justice denied, irreversibly. The 63 rare diseases grouped into three categories include a range of genetic and metabolic disorders, including Phenylketonuria, Cystic Fibrosis, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Prader-Willi Syndrome, and various Lysosomal Storage Disorders, a rare genetic metabolic disease.
Foreign national arrested with drugs worth Rs 75 lakh
BENGALURU: The Bandepalya police arrested a 45-year-old foreign national and have recovered MDMA and cocaine worth Rs 75 lakh. The accused has been identified as Chibuzo Godwin Onuigbo. On October 30, the police received information from an informant that a person was selling banned narcotic substances MDMA tablets and cocaine powder near Somasundarapalya Lake. The police rushed to the spot mentioned by the informant, conducted a raid, and apprehended him. The accused said he had come to India in 2018 on a business visa and started garment trade in Delhi. About three months ago, he came to the city and began living with an acquaintance. During this period, he started buying MDMA tablets and cocaine powder at low prices from an unknown person in the city and selling them at higher prices to college students and other customers. The police have recovered 752 grams of MDMA tablets, eight grams of cocaine powder, and one two-wheeler used for the illegal activity from the accused. On the next day, the accused was produced before the court which remanded him to judicial custody.
MoS Somanna says circular rail project for Bengaluru shelved due to rising costs
BENGALURU: Minister of State for Railways V Somanna has said that the proposed circular rail project for Bengaluru has been shelved for now, as costs are projected to reach Rs 1 lakh crore, far-exceeding initial estimates. However, mobility experts have urged not to abandon the plan, calling it crucial for improving regional connectivity and easing congestion. They suggest that the project can still be made viable through integration with other infrastructure projects such as the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) and the Bengaluru Suburban Rail network, as well as by using existing railway alignments to reduce costs. Speaking to TNIE , mobility expert Sanjeev Dyammanavar pointed out that the state government is already planning the PRR and has left space for Metro provisions along certain stretches. Since the PRR intersects existing railway lines at several points like Tumakuru line, Bidadi, Doddaballapur, Chikkaballapur, and others it makes sense to optimise alignments. By integrating the PRR with the Circular Rail and using existing government land wherever possible, both cost and land acquisition hurdles can be reduced, he said. He added that the project need not be implemented in one go. The Circular Rail can be developed phase by phase, so that the financial burden doesnt fall at once. A single-track system with crossing stations at 5-8 km intervals could reduce costs by 30-50%, he explained. Also by integrating with Suburban Rail, cost of Rakes & maintenance can be optimised, which will reduce project cost. The expert further noted that while the Metro caters primarily to urban commuters, the Circular Rail would serve industrial workers and rural passengers, similar to a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). They dont need Metro-type services, but fast and affordable connectivity, he said, suggesting exploring the use of NICE Road corridors between Bengaluru and Mysuru for railway alignment, wherever feasible. The state and Union governments should not abandon this project, he stressed, adding, If optimised and integrated with suburban and PRR routes, the Circular Rail can become a long-term, cost-effective solution for Bengalurus mobility and regional development. Rail activist Krishna Prasad said the project is already decades behind. It should have been implemented three decades ago. Land acquisition would have been easy then. Now, its difficult and expensive because every area has been built up, he said, adding that the project requires strong coordination and realistic fare-setting. He said the project could have been implemented in stages say, Hebbal to Anekal first, then Anekal to Bidadi gradually covering the circle. If implemented despite all hurdles, it would be a great project. But if its shelved again, its a huge loss , he said. He further added that if the project is implemented, people would be able to travel from Bidadi to Anekal or Hebbal to Tumakuru without entering the city, which would reduce a lot of traffic.
Hyderabad Book Fair 2025 to be held from December 19 to 29
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Book Fair Committee has announced that the 38th edition of the Hyderabad Book Fair will be held from December 19 to 29 at NTR Stadium near Indira Park. The event poster was unveiled at a meeting held at Somajiguda Press Club on Monday, November 3, by Book Fair Advisors Prof. Kodandaram and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
KSU intervention helps locals get pending salaries
By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Nov 2: The local Khasi employees working with Inclen Somaarth, a firm based at Mawngaprim, finally received their pending salaries on Saturday after the intervention of the Khasi Students Union (KSU) Mawphlang Unit in collaboration with the Sohiong Circle. Sources on Sunday confirmed that around 30 Khasi youth employees were affected []
Visakhapatnam: Flower Prices Surge Ahead of Karthika Somavaram
Middlemen, citing quality concerns, are buying flowers at throwaway prices but selling them high in city markets, exploiting the festive rush.
Man kills manager with dumbbell over office quarrel in Bengaluru
BENGALURU: A 41-year-old man was murdered by his colleague at their office in Saraswathinagar under Govindaraja Nagar police limits on Saturday around 1.30 am. The deceased has been identified as Bheemesh Babu from Chitradurga. He and the accused, Somala Vamsi, 24, from Vijawada, reportedly stayed back at office after other staff left on Friday evening, as they had some pending work. Before leaving the office, a quarrel broke out between them over switching off the lights and Vamsi hit Babu with a dumbbell, killing him on the spot. Vamsi then went to the police station and surrendered. The company handles film shoots and Babu worked as its manager. It employs around six people and a few of them live in Nayandahalli. When Vamsi started switching off the lights, Babu got upset and took him to task. This led to an altercation. Later, Babu went to his house, which is attached to the office. Vamsi, who followed him, took chilli powder from the kitchen and threw it on Babus face. He then picked up a dumbbell and hit Babusforehead. When Babu fell unconscious, Vamsi panicked and called another colleague, who rushed to the house. They called the 108 ambulanceservice to shift Babu to hospital. When the ambulance staff confirmed Babus death, Vamsi went to the police station andsurrendered,thepolice said.
Personality test: How you make a fist reveals this about you
A social media personality test, shared by Marina Neuralean, claims to reveal your true nature and stress coping mechanisms based on how you clench your fist. The test, rooted in somatic patterns, suggests different fist positions reflect distinct personality traits, leadership tendencies, emotional intelligence, or introversion and heightened stress sensitivity.
Where Would America Be Without Us? Refugee Community Stunned by White House Limits
Minnesotas large Somali community was among the immigrant groups that helped revitalize the Lake Street corridor, which has long called out to newcomers to America.
Jubilee Hills bypoll: BRS-BJP hold Fevicol like bond, says Revanth
Hyderabad: Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy has alleged a strong understanding between the BRS and BJP, specifically in the context of the Jubilee Hills bypoll,, comparing it to a Fevicol-like bond, and accused K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), KT Rama Rao (KTR), and Kishan Reddy of obstructing Telanganas progress. Roadshow in Vengal Rao Nagar, Somajigua Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Govt. gives Group-II post to son of slain former MLA
Maoists killed former MLA Siveri Soma and then sitting legislator Kidari Sarveswara Rao at Araku Valley in 2018
Somasila Reservoir Nears Full Level; Minister Narayana Puts Officials on High Alert
Heavy inflows force water release into Penna River; low areas face flooding
Health Biotech Strengthens Global Footprint at CPHI Frankfurt 2025
Health Biotech Limited (Health Biotech), a research and development-driven pharmaceutical company from India, successfully concluded its participation at CPHI Frankfurt 2025. Considered one of the most respected global gatherings for the pharmaceutical industry, the three-day international event, themed Shaping Pharmas Future , was held from October 28 to 30 in Frankfurt, Germany, and brought together experts and innovators from across continents. Mr. Parmjit Arora with clients at CPHI Frankfurt 2025 At the event, Health Biotech received a warm response from a steady flow of visitors, including international business delegates, among others. The company's product line and manufacturing capability showcased at the expo attracted significant attention from overseas customers, also enhancing Health Biotech's image as a quality-oriented pharmaceutical manufacturer. Health Biotech representative and clients at CPHI Frankfurt 2025 Speaking about the companys participation, Mr. Parmjit Arora, Managing Director, Health Biotech Limited said, Events like CPHI Frankfurt open meaningful dialogues with global partners who share our belief in quality and innovation. Our participation this year reflects the steady progress weve made in research-led manufacturing. From oncology injectables to advanced drug delivery systems, every collaboration strengthens our commitment to making reliable and affordable medicines accessible worldwide, built on a foundation of scientific integrity . Mr. Amrit Arora, Director, Health Biotech Limited was also present at the venue. Health Biotech is renowned for formulating and manufacturing cost-effective, high-quality generic and innovative drugs. Its core business is injectables, including lyophilized, dry, and liquid forms, as well as liposomal injectables, pre-filled syringes, liquid ampoules and vials. The portfolio also includes eye, ear, and nasal drops, sterile, non-sterile ointments, and liquid as well as dry syrups, making it one of the few Indian firms with such a wide sterile range. Health Biotech's manufacturing facility, located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Baddi industrial belt, is WHO-GMP and ISO 9001:2008 certified and complies with MHRA norms. The facility is equipped with advanced executory features like auto-tunnel sterilization, lyophilization capacity and form-fill-seal process for sterile injectables and prefilled syringes. The company began commercial operations in 2005 and was amongst one of the earliest manufacturers to set up a plant in the excise-free zone. Over time, it evolved into a dependable contract manufacturer for some of Indias biggest pharmaceutical companies such as Cipla, Cadila, Piramal, Vetoquinol, and Lupin. Its steady growth has resulted in creating over 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space, accommodating an innovative and fast-expanding range of products. In 2009, Health Biotech entered its own marketing journey across India and global markets. Alongside this, it established a Government of Indiaapproved R&D Centre, working on areas such as nano-particle and liposomal drug delivery, plant-based research, and bio-waste utilization. Some of its major projects include the purification of heparin from bio-waste and the development of recombinant DARBEPOETIN ALFA. Health Biotech produces close to 1,000 pharmaceuticals across major therapeutic categories - oncology, hormones, critical care, and higher antibiotics. Its products range from injectables, syrups, prefilled syringes to creams, ointments, drops, and more. Health Biotech's leadership position in oncology, injectables, hormonal products, and cardiovascular pharmaceuticals is a testament to its manufacturing capability and flexibility. Health Biotech's participation in CPHI Frankfurt 2025 was a reflection of its compliance with global standards, as much as, a reflection of its mission to build long-term global relations. The overwhelming response at the show spoke volumes about the confidence the company has earned with its consistent quality, niche innovation, and scientific excellence. About Health Biotech Limited Founded in 2005, Health Biotech Limited is an India-based pharmaceutical organization with a research-driven approach. The company specializes in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, affordable formulations in the areas of oncology, hormones, critical care, and antibiotics.Health Biotech with its WHO-GMP certified production unit in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh has expanded its presence in both Indian and global markets by its expansive offerings across a broad spectrum of injectables, syrups, ointments and latest drug delivery systems. healthbiotech.in
In a move to bridge critical gaps in Indias construction supply chain, Tattva, the Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) arm of Somany Impresa Group (home to Hindware), today announced a strategic investment of INR 6 crore in Mad Over Buildings (MOB), a fintech-enabled B2B e-commerce platform specializing in building materials. (L-R): Vivek Kumar, Founder Mad Over Building and Shashvat Somany, Founder, Tattva and Group Strategy Head, Somany Impresa Group This partnership gives MOB access to Hindwares extensive distribution network, accelerating market penetration and expanding its footprint across Indias fast-growing construction ecosystem. MOBs tech-enabled Line of Credit for secondary and tertiary sales and escrow-backed marketplace addresses financing challenges for smaller distributors and retailers, enhancing liquidity and enabling seamless transactions. The platform is focused on emerging architects, contractors, and builders, providing an untapped market opportunity. Hindware, through this partnership will leverage MOBs vast and expansive e-commerce prowess to drive stronger sales momentum across categories. Our investment in MOB reflects Tattvas strategic vision to not only participate in, but actively shape the future of Indias building materials ecosystem , said Mr. Shashvat Somany, Founder, Tattva and Group Strategy Head, Somany Impresa Group . MOBs approach to digitizing the supply chain, coupled with its innovative financing solutions, perfectly aligns with our objective of fostering technology advancements that drive efficiency and unlock new growth avenues across Hindware Limited. This investment underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of market innovation and supporting solutions that empower our vast network and the industry at large. Mr. Sriharsha Bandaluppi, Head of Tattva said, MOBs strong connect to mid and low-segment architects, contractors, and builders, a segment often overlooked by larger players, is exciting. Their 'Industry 1st tech-enabled Line of Credit' for secondary and tertiary sales is a game-changer. It directly empowers Hindwares distributors and dealers by improving access to financing and driving faster transaction cycles, while simultaneously accelerating MOBs market reach and growth. The investment in MOB is strategically timed to leverage the rapid evolution of Indias construction technology and materials procurement landscape. The building materials sector represents a high-growth industry with a clear pathway to profitability, yet its digital adoption remains at just 2%, highlighting immense untapped potential for platforms like MOB to drive digital transformation and gain market share. Mr. Vivek Kumar, Founder Mad Over Building said, With Hindwares INR 6 crore investment through Tattva, we are doubling down on our vision to digitize Indias US$200 billion construction and interiors industry. MOB is creating the countrys first curated Line-of-Credit and escrow-backed marketplace, unifying every category from civil materials to sustainable and interior solutions under one transparent ecosystem. Having built MOB from the ground up, I believe this marks Indias inflection point in Construction Tech, where capital, technology, and trust converge to create exponential value over the next decade. About Tattva SIG Tattva, the corporate venture capital arm of Somany Impresa Group, empowers visionary founders and transformative startups. Inspired by the Sanskrit word Tattva meaning essence, principle, or fundamental truth the platform reflects a commitment to truth, excellence, and progress. Focusing on early-stage ventures in deep-tech manufacturing, enterprise SaaS, clean technologies, next-generation e-commerce, and disruptive product innovations, SIG Tattva goes beyond capital to provide strategic guidance, industry access, and operational expertise. By bridging entrepreneurs with real-world industrial ecosystems, it aims to accelerate breakthrough ideas and strengthen Indias deep-tech innovation landscape. About MOB Mad Over Buildings (MOB), founded by visionary entrepreneur Kumar Vivek, is scaling Indias first curated Line-of-Credit, escrow-backed payment system, and full-stack material catalogue, including sustainable construction and interior materials. MOB is transforming how architects, contractors, and developers transact digitally, transparently, and at scale. The platform is rapidly emerging as a leading Construction-Tech venture in India.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man Who United India
By Ravi Rohmetra Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born into a Gujarati family belonging to the Leva Patel community. He hailed from Karamsad, a village in the erstwhile Bombay Presidency, where his father, Jhaverbhai Patel, owned a homestead. Patel had three elder brothersSomabhai, Narsibhai, and Vithalbhai (who would later become a prominent political leader)and two [] The post Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man Who United India appeared first on Northlines .
317km Metro line can be built with Tunnel Road funds, says Bangalore MP Tejasvi Surya
BENGALURU: Mocking Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Bangalore South MP Tejasvi Surya said all these days, he had been under the impression that the proposed Tunnel Road project aimed to solve Bengalurus traffic problems, but he has now realised that it is a project to address a social issue. He said his realisation came after Shivakumar defended the project, stating that no one wants to marry a man without a car. He questioned how the project could be a panacea for Bengalurus traffic. On Wednesday, Surya shared a presentation with the media on decongesting Bengaluru and said, There can be no other example than the Rs 43,000 crore Tunnel Road project in wasting public money. How can an 18-km road solve all of Bengalurus traffic problems? No feasibility study was done, and they (government) are not listening to experts. Stating that he has put forward scientific solutions to curb the traffic in the city, the MP said, 70 per cent of Bengalureans must travel in public transport, and to achieve this, he has proposed five key solutions -- completing all the existing projects first without any further delay, instead of increasing car traffic, more people must be moved in less time at a lower cost, making public transport the top priority, ensuring that Metro, Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), Greater Bengaluru Authority and all departments work together and build safer footpaths for pedestrians. In his presentation, Surya said the tunnel road will carry 1,800 passengers per hour in one direction and that the Metro can carry 69,000 per hour in one direction. He said that the Metro carries 40 times more people than the Tunnel Road project will, for the same investment. Comparing the fares, Surya said one-way toll on the Tunnel Road is Rs 330, while the average Metro fare is Rs 50-60. Surya said the government itself had stated that after the launch of the Yellow Line, traffic at Silk Board was cut by 37% and questioned given these figures, should we increase Metro connectivity or build tunnels for car movement. He said that Metro, Suburban Rail, buses and trams are crucial for Bengaluru. With the Tunnel Road projects amount, we can build 317 km of Metro by 2031, he said. Meanwhile, Shivakumar slammed BJP leaders, accusing them of not being concerned about the citys development. Neither I nor Tejasvi Surya are technical experts on Tunnel Road. There is a team of technical experts who are in favour of the project. We have no issues in making the urban rail project as long as he gets funds from the Centre. He can take the help of V Somanna, who is the Union Minister, he said, responding to a question on Suryas opposition to the project. Shivakumar said they are doing their work, and people are supporting their initiative. I am confident it will be implemented, he said.
Survey identifies 128 level crossings to be removed within 100 km of Bengaluru
This follows a directive issued in July by Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna, who instructed officials to eliminate all level crossings within this zone to enhance both rail and road safety
Fake Birth Certificate Scam: BJPs Kirit Somaiya Flags 511 Illegal Rohingyas In Amravati
Somaiya said Amravati Municipal Corporation had illegally issued a total of 1,709 birth certificates, many of which were later found to be fraudulent.
Somasila Reservoir Kept 10 tmc ft Below Full Level To Avoid Flood Havoc
In 2021, unprecedented inflows following breaches at the upstream Annamayya project forced Somasila engineers to release over 5.1 lakh cusecs of water downstream
Cabinet secretary T V Somanathan reviews preparedness for cyclone in Bay of Bengal
Authorities are on high alert for an impending cyclone in the Bay of Bengal. The focus is on ensuring no lives are lost and property damage is minimized. Rescue teams are ready, and fishermen have been warned not to venture out. The cyclone is expected to intensify and make landfall on Tuesday evening or night.
Political differences will not hinder development projects: Union Minister Somanna
Interview: Artist Hanan Benammar opens up on racism, anger, and vandalism of her work in Kochi
What is art? And who decides what art is? These are the questions that many are asking after an artwork displayed at Durbar Hall in Kochi was allegedly vandalised by sculptor Hochimin P H and writer Sudamshu on Wednesday. Their argument was that the language of the work was abusive, explicit and shouldnt have been displayed at the exhibition. Algerian-French artist Hanan Benammar, whose work Go Eat your Dad is now at the centre of the controversy, says attacks are not new to her. But she hoped discussions and criticism to be constructive not limiting or physical. Part of the exhibition titled Estranged Geographies, this particular work had the Malayalam translation of the abuses she curated as part of a linguistic research. It was a work triggered from racist attacks she faced in Norway, she says. Excerpts: Hanans another work the Norwegian Artistic Canon displayed at Durbar Hall in Kochi Shall we start with a bit about your creative process?? I have several ways of working. Some works are research-based and slow. Then I have works that are responses to certain events. Works about cultural canons, colonial history, what is perceived as being colonial in art, national identity, etc. There have been instances when my work or I get attacked, leading towards work in response to that. I have done a few works like this in the past six years. So, this is a bit of a trademark of mine (laughs). Was Go Eat Your Dad one such work? I had entered a very long conversation about racism. Some people disagreed on how I expressed anger or frustration around racism in one of my works back in Norway. A top curator told me to watch my mouth. I confronted this person about tone-policing and the class-based way of viewing anger. Why should I be the one bowing to a certain language when I am trying to express something that is traumatic, rooted in my everyday experience? The same curator later invited me to an exhibition. I presented this idea that I wanted to make a piece about the perceptions of expressing anger in the language of insults. She understood that it was a response to her as well in a way. I wanted to push the limits. Thats how Go Eat Your Dad happened in 2021. Pieces of Hanans vandalised work now lie untouched on the floor of Durbar Hall like a silent statement Could you elaborate on the work? I asked people I knew, those from multilingual backgrounds, to give me their best, worst swear words and insults. I curated them. It became like a list of words, a list of expressions, which I thought was a bit poetic in a way, because it was different attempts to say one thing f**k you. The title comes from the Somali language. Go Eat Your Dad is a Somali expression, a feminist version of a more common insult that targets mothers. I first presented the work in Norway, after translating all the insults and cuss words into Norwegian language. It was, of course, meant to provoke. Each time I am invited to display this work, I translate it into the local language. In Miami, I translated it into Spanish. In Denmark, I translated it into Danish, and so on. Here, it is in Malayalam. Its interesting to present this work like an infiltration of some sort. Viewers wonder What the hell is this? And that should ideally lead to a conversation. It can be triggering for some people. I dont think an art space should always be a space of comfort. Its also a place of questions, a place of provocation. Did this particular work generate such a strong, angry response from other places? Not for this work. I expected a bit of pushback from the Cuban community in Miami, but they loved it. They laughed so much. It was amusing. I had the same experience here too initially until the vandalism happened. Unexpected and unprecedented. A snap from Hanan's video installation Desert Ideologies at Durbar Hall It was a fellow artist who vandalised the work... I am not against direct actions. I would have respected his opinion if he had engaged in a critical discussion with me, rather than smearing my work. I saw afterwards that there were several social media posts about the director of the [Lalithakala] Akademi, who has nothing to do with this show. One of the curators, Anushka Rajendran, is from Kerala and lives in Delhi. The other, Damian, is from Switzerland. They picked the artists, not Murali [Cheeroth]. But these people are using my work to smear him. They didnt even mention my name while denigrating my work. Instead of saying, Look at the work of Hanan, its a disgrace, they were talking about Murali is corrupt. Its sad that the people who vandalised my work didnt spend a minute reading the text that is next to it or the context. After the crime, he [artist Hochimin] proclaimed, By the way, this is a protest against this anti-women work. Whats your take on that? So youre going into an exhibition that is very feminist as a whole, and you tear down the work of a female artist whose work has been against white supremacy! I understand I am privileged when I come here. But my experience is not less valid here. Its just that we come from different contexts. My work was from within the context of oppression. I was born in France. My parents are from Algeria. My father was part of the Algerian war of independence. Leftist politics runs in my family. People died, were tortured, and were displaced as a result. And then I ended up in Norway, a country where they dont really understand the history of the global south. So one has to make it visible. If he [Hochimin] had taken five minutes to analyse my works, he would have thought: Oh, maybe we are allies. Hanan Benammar Are you planning any legal action against them? The Akademi is pressing charges, not me. I am more concerned about female artists who want to engage with critical, problematic, or obscene material. I think obscenity has a space in art as well. Once the din calms down, hopefully there will be a moment where we can talk about the role of art in society, culture. Do you feel art is being boxed up? Everybody can have their little boxes. But to dictate with physical means what should be in an art space or not this is where it gets problematic. There has always been this question of womens expressions. That women have this space for beauty and quietness, and then shut up and be pretty. Its classic, very vintage (laughs)! I feel women should reclaim obscenity, vulgarity. That is a feminist tactic too. Are you exhibiting your works anywhere else in India? I am not sure if I will get invitations after this (laughs). But I hope so. I love being here.
Union min Somanna urges state govt for overall devpt of Channamma memorials
Consider government service as platform to serve the underprivileged: V. Somanna
As part of the national Rozgar Mela initiative, 47 candidates received appointment orders for various positions in the Departments of Posts, Railways, the Airports Authority of India, and the Union Home Ministry
Milind Soman: Many women are more comfortable running in sarees than in shorts or tights
Mumbai's Diwali Pahat Saree Run celebrated Diwali with over a hundred women running 5KM in vibrant sarees alongside Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar. This event, part of Pinkathon's pre-initiatives, highlighted inclusivity and women's health, reinforcing that fitness can be celebrated in any attire.
ICAR to revive 5-yr plan to achieve Vision 2047 goals
NEW DELHI: Following a letter from the Cabinet Secretary, the Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has issued 18 actionable points for immediate implementation. The points, accessed by this newspaper, include revival of a five-year plan aimed at achieving Vision 2047 goals, preparation of dynamic research data on agricultural trends, research related to AI in agriculture, and deep tech data analysis. After Prime Minister Narendra Modis meeting with secretaries of all departments on October 6, Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan directed the Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, to take appropriate action. The ICAR DG then met all institutions and subject matter divisions (SMDs) on October 7 to prepare actionable points for implementation. The focus of these actionable points includes data management, sharing and utilisation, team building, and strategising for research, and media coverage. The points also state that any transfer of private, foreign, or educational resources must be vetted through SMDs. Moreover, the actionable points indicate that ICAR may return to a five-year planning framework to set goals and monitor achievements to meet the Vision 2047 objectives. The five-year plan was discontinued in 2017, transitioning instead to a more flexible framework under the NITI Aayog. According to the document regarding Vision 2047, The vision and actionable steps should be structured in five-year increments, with well-defined goals, actionable paths or parameters, indicators, and outcomes. It also states, Records of research data and recent trends, such as exports, should be maintained and updated digitally. Teams are encouraged to evaluate future needs on a commodity-specific basis, prioritise market-driven research, and leverage market intelligence. The document discusses a shift in strategies towards a more problem-solving approach. It emphasises that the role of the research lead within the institution should be clearly defined, focusing on problem-oriented research rather than routine activities like germplasm collection and maintenance. The document also calls for a revamp of the media and communication policy to enhance visibility for ICAR work and ensure it is linked to the PMO and relevant ministries. Problem-oriented research to be in focus The document emphasises that the role of the research lead within the institution should be clearly defined, focusing on problem-oriented research rather than routine activities like germplasm collection and maintenance. The document also calls for a revamp of the media and communication policy to enhance visibility for ICAR work.
Govt bats for dynamic database for agri trade
NEW DELHI: The Cabinet Secretary, TV Somanathan, has directed the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Secretary to create a dynamic database with information on sowing, production, and the export-import of products. The aim is to improve agricultural trade and deal with the current lack of real-time data, which affects policy-making and international trade. Experts say this move is strategic, helping India handle US tariffs and prepare for future free trade agreements. The directive states, A dynamic data bank for agricultural products, including information about sowing, production, and export or import activities, should be prepared to facilitate the evidence-based framing of agricultural policy to the extent that it is currently lacking. The instruction came after a meeting on October 6 between the PM and senior officials, where ministries were asked to hold Chintan Shivirs to discuss important issues. The Cabinet Secretarys letter lists 28 points for all ministries. It stresses changing communication plans, reducing imports to promote self-reliance, limiting the number of litigations filed by ministries, and preparing India to reach developed country status by 2047. The letter asks the Education Secretary to review the selection of doctoral supervisors. It says, PhD programmes should be reoriented to promote innovation and the development of new, relevant ideas and technologies, through topics that align with the emerging needs and priorities of the country. To address urban issues, the letter proposes forming working groups to examine urbanisation and recommend improvements in planning, governance, and administration. It also calls for a campaign to improve civic responsibility and behaviour. Departments are asked to work with local manufacturers to reduce dependence on imports. A team of third-party experts is also suggested to assess and certify product quality, helping both the government and private businesses maintain standards. Ministries are asked to use both traditional and social media, with Indian Information Service officers helping with outreach.
Sullia MLA suggests relocating Kaniyoor station, develop railway terminal at Yeladka
Bhagirathi Murulya tells MoSR for Railways V. Somanna the terminal station will help Railways introduce more trains and decongest stations in Mangaluru
UClean enters UAE market, target 1,000 stores through global expansion
UClean, the Indian laundry and dry-cleaning chain, has entered the UAE as part of its international expansion, aiming for over 1,000 outlets globally in the next 18 months. Currently operating nearly 700 stores in India and serving 2 million customers annually, the brand already has a presence in Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Somalia, and Mauritius.
Blast on Railway Track Derails Jaffar Express in Pakistan, Several Injured
Peshawar, Oct 7: Several passengers were injured on Tuesday when a blast on a railway track derailed five bogies of the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express in Sindh province, railway police said. The explosion occurred near Somarwah, close to Sultan Kot in Shikarpur district. Injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals, while a rescue operation is underway. [] The post Blast on Railway Track Derails Jaffar Express in Pakistan, Several Injured appeared first on Northlines .
Railway Track Blast Derails Jaffar Express In Pakistan, Several Injured
Peshawar, Oct 7: Several people were injured in a blast that occurred on a railway track, which derailed five bogies of a train in Pakistans southwestern Sindh province on Tuesday, railway police said. The injured passengers of the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express, which has been attacked multiple times this year, were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. The explosion occurred near Somarwah, close to Sultan Kot in Shikarpur district of Sindh. A rescue operation is underway at the site, police said. [] The post Railway Track Blast Derails Jaffar Express In Pakistan, Several Injured appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Women bear brunt of climate insecurity but are excluded from decision-making, says report
NEW DELHI: A sobering fact sheet released this month by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) highlights the disproportionate impact of climate insecurity on women and girls, while exposing their continued exclusion from peace and climate governance. The report, Climate, Peace and Security Thematic Fact Sheet: Women, Peace and Security 2025, draws on data from the UN, IPCC, and World Bank to reveal a grim reality: by 2050, climate change could push 158 million women and girls into povertysurpassing the 142 million men and boys similarly affected. Today, 26.7% of women face food insecurity compared to 25.4% of men, underscoring a persistent gender gap in vulnerability. In 2023, women accounted for 40% of civilian conflict deaths, children 30%, and men the remaining 30%, reflecting the specific and uneven risks women endure amid climate-related conflicts. These numbers lay bare the fact that climate insecurity is neither gender-neutral nor benign. The report details how womens daily survival activitiessuch as fetching water or collecting firewoodexpose them to increased abuse. Overcrowded water points provoke domestic conflict, and long journeys to distant resources heighten vulnerability to assault. Displacement intensifies these dangers; in Somalia, for example, displaced women live under a constant threat of sexual violence. Despite bearing these burdens, women also play vital roles in community resilience. In Chad, women constitute 60% of the agricultural workforce, maintaining production despite drought and land degradation. In Yemen, womens committees have successfully negotiated access to water resources with tribal leaders and military groups, easing tensions and providing critical relief. Yet, their presence in formal peace and climate decision-making remains marginal. Between 1989 and 2018, womens groups participated in just 9% of formal peace talks in Africa and the Americas and only 12% of non-violent peace initiatives. At the 2024 COP29 climate summit, women made up only 35% of delegates, while from 2015 to 2023, women held just 22% of permanent seats on the UN Security Council. The fact sheet outlines four key pathways through which climate insecurity affects women: impacts on livelihoods, migration, armed actors, and grievances. Communities reliant on farming and pastoralism face acute vulnerability to environmental shocks. Mens migration for work, observed in countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Mali, leaves women with heavy responsibilities amid scarce resources. Armed groups exploit these vulnerabilitiesex-combatants in Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria cite climate pressures as recruitment drivers; in Ugandas Karamoja, drought-induced cattle losses fuel raids. Children, especially girls, are recruited in Myanmar and Sierra Leone under similar stresses, while women environmental defenders in Colombia face threats from armed and security forces linked to clean energy projects. Policy responses remain inadequate. Although over three-quarters of agricultural policies acknowledge womens roles, only 19% explicitly prioritise gender equality. National climate adaptation plans often mention gender superficially, resulting in a fragmented landscape where climate policies ignore gender, and gender policies overlook climate. The report calls for urgent measures: increased funding for grassroots womens groups via the UN Peacebuilding Fund and Green Climate Fund; stronger protections against gender-based violence and forced recruitment for displaced people; enhanced involvement of local mediators and Indigenous leaders; and integrating climate as a core issue in Women, Peace and Security national action plans. Importantly, it emphasises including men and boys in gender-responsive approaches, recognising how evolving masculinities under climate stress can either escalate conflict or promote peace. The study concludes with a stark warning: climate change amplifies existing dangers and inequalities. Without placing gender at the heart of policy, cycles of inequality and violence will intensify, undermining both peace and security.
Ekta, Soman and Praveen add to Indias medal tally
The host registers best-ever performance in the event bettering the one in the previous edition in Kobe; Chakkungal Parambil finishes fourth in womens Long Jump T47 with an effort of 5.74m
Government Rural Siddha Hospital in Somarasanpettai to get new building
The new building is being constructed at an estimated cost of 30 lakh granted under the National AYUSH Mission and will include rooms for yoga exercises
Omar Calls Wangchuks Arrest Unfortunate, Says Centre Didnt Keep Its Promise
Srinagar, Sep 26: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said the arrest of climate activist Soman Wangchuk was unfortunate, and accused the BJP-led NDA government of backtracking on its promises. This (Wangchuk arrest) is unfortunate. The way the Central government was after him since yesterday, it seemed they would do something like this, Abdullah told reporters on the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony of the third Junior Asian Pencak Silat championship here. Promises were made with the [] The post Omar Calls Wangchuks Arrest Unfortunate, Says Centre Didnt Keep Its Promise appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dont want her: Trump says Somalia wont take back Ilhan Omar; she dubs him lying buffoon
V Somanna met Nitin Gadkari to speed up compensation for landowners. This is for the Satellite Town Ring Road project. The project covers the Dobbaspet- Madagapalli section. Somanna also requested early completion of national highway projects in Tumakuru. He asked for a review of the highway alignment from Mallasandra to Vasanthanarasapura.
NEW DELHI: Congress leader Manish Tewari on Tuesday referred to the recent toppling of governments in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal and the recent protests in the Philippines to say that entitlement is no longer acceptable to Gen X, Y, Z. In his post, Tewari wrote, The toppling of - President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Sri Lanka in July 2023, Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh in July 2024, KP Sharma Oli in Nepal in September 2025 and now the protests against Ferdinand Marcos Jr in the Philippines have one word written over them - ENTITLEMENT IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE TO GEN X, Y, Z. He also said, Watch for my piece on 'The Social Media Trends' that toppled or are challenging 'DYNASTS'. Study #nepokids or #TrillionPesoMarch in the meantime. Tewari cited media reports on the recent protests in Philippines erupting over flood control fraud. The BJP latched on to Tewari's use of words like #nepokids in his post on X to say, Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, member of the G-23 rebel group, takes aim at Rahul Gandhi - the ultimate 'Nepo Kid' of Indian politics. The remarks of Tewari were used by the BJP to attack the Congress, with its leader Amit Malviya terming Gandhi as the ultimate 'Nepokid' of Indian politics and Sambit Patra saying people of the country have already removed the epokid in 2014. Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, member of the G-23 rebel group, takes aim at Rahul Gandhi the ultimate Nepo Kid of Indian politics. Forget Gen Z, even Congresss own veterans are fed up with his regressive politics. The revolt is now from within! https://t.co/v8HoxXKgG9 Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) September 23, 2025 Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari, member of the G-23 rebel group, takes aim at Rahul Gandhi - the ultimate 'Nepo Kid' of Indian politics. Forget Gen Z, even Congress's own veterans are fed up with his regressive politics. The revolt is now from within, Malviya said in his post on X while responding to Tewari. Tewari, a member of the G23 rebel group within the Congress, which had questioned the leadership, hit back, saying his remarks should not be viewed as Congress versus BJP, but have serious national security implications for the country. Gosh, I just wish that some people would grow up in life. Everything does not have to be dumbed down to a Cong-BJP he-said-she-said or targeting X or Y. What is happening in South Asia and East Asia has serious National Security implications, and why it is happening needs to be understood in the correct perspective, Tewari said. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said, Manish Tewari has written in his article that GEN Z doesn't want a dynast. That's why there are so many conflicts going on all over the world to remove dynasties. People of India are spiritual and awakened also. They did it in 2014 itself. People of India do not take to the streets to do such things. People of India do the right thing at the right time in a very disciplined manner. So they removed the Nepo kid. Now the Nepo kid is nothing today, neither anything is going to happen in case now, Patra said.
Somalia-bound cargo ship catches fire on Gujarat coast; no casualties reported
AHMEDABAD: A Jamnagar-based cargo ship, PDI 1383 Haridasran, loaded with 950 tonnes of rice and 78 tonnes of sugar caught fire at Porbandar Port, Gujarat, on Monday morning. No casualties were reported as all 14 crew members were safely evacuated after the rescue and firefighting operations. Within moments, thick smoke and raging flames engulfed the ship, visible from a distance, raising alarm across the port. With lives secured, the burning vessel was tugged away from the port into open waters to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby ships and infrastructure. Firefighters battled the fire at sea, but the ship sustained extensive damage, leaving its future uncertain. Authorities have begun a probe to determine the cause of the fire. Relief teams continue cooling operations to prevent a flare-up.
Video: Somalia-Bound Ship Catches Fire At Gujarat's Porbandar
A ship anchored at Porbandar Subhashnagar Jetty in Gujarat caught fire on Monday. The fire dousing operation began with three fire brigade vehicles arriving at the scene, said officials.
Somalia-Bound Ship Carrying Rice, Sugar Catches Fire At Porbandar Jetty, Towed Out To Sea
Authorities later towed the ship to the middle of the sea to contain the flames.
The Minister of State for Railways inaugurates the additional RoB atop the Mangaluru-Mumbai Railway line on NH 169A at Indrali in Udupi
Samithi to urge Somanna for coach watering and train stabling facilities in coastal Karnataka
Introduction of Bengaluru-Udupi Vande Bharat Express and Udupi Railway Station development under Amrit Bharat Scheme will also be demanded
Donald Trump has escalated his attacks on Representative Ilhan Omar after a House resolution to censure her failed. Trump called Omar errible and suggested impeachment. He questioned her background, criticizing Somalia's governance and repeating debunked allegations about her citizenship. Trump asserted that individuals from struggling nations shouldn't advise the US
Somanna to inaugurate additional railway overbridge at Indrali on September 21
Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna will inaugurate the newly constructed additional railway overbridge (RoB) on Malpe-Tirthahalli National Highway 169A atop Mangaluru-Mumbai railway line at Indrali in Udupi on September 21
Magic Drain shows promise in rural sanitation at Somavaram
The pilot project is a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative to the conventional concrete drains; built using trenches lined with layers of graded stones and soak pits, the system allows household wastewater to filter naturally into the soil
Is Cancer A Genetic Disease? Here's What The Latest Research Shows
Yes, cancer is fundamentally a genetic disease, but not only a hereditary one. Most cancers arise from mutations acquired during life (somatic mutations) interacting with inherited genes and environmental exposures. Understanding this interplay expla
Rajarajeswari Medical College and Hospital celebrates 15th graduation day in Bengaluru
Union Minister V. Somanna was the chief guest
Santosh Lad accused of failing to cooperate in completing land acquisition for railway project
I will speak to Dharwad in-charge Minister again, says Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna
Minister Releases Water From Somasila Reservoir Into Pennar River
Though the reservoirs capacity has been enhanced to 78 TMC feet, water levels are being maintained at 74 TMC feet due to safety concerns: AP Endowments minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy
Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy releases water from Somasila Reservoir to Penna River
The government is preparing plans to set up temple tourism parks across the district as per the orders of the Chief Minister
All you need to know about: the kissing bug disease
Chagas disease is caused by a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi, predominantly transmitted through kissing bugs or triatomine insects
NCLT orders ex-promoters of HNG to repay defrauded Rs 42 cr amount to debtors
NEW DELHI, Sept 13:The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has directed the erstwhile promoters of Hindusthan National Glass & Industries Ltd (HNG) to return Rs 42.46 crore, misappropriated by them, to corporate debtors within two months. The Kolkata bench of the NCLT also ordered the Resolution Professional of the debt-ridden company to institute criminal prosecution against suspended directors Sanjay Somany and Mukul Somany under Section 69 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. The tribunal found the transactions of Rs 42.46 [] The post NCLT orders ex-promoters of HNG to repay defrauded Rs 42 cr amount to debtors appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
BJP to organise Namo Yuva Run on September 21 to mark PM Modi's 75th birthday
NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party has announced the organisation of the NaMo Yuva Run: For A Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign on September 21 to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 75th birthday. The BJPs Yuva Morcha chief Tejasvi Surya said on Sunday, To mark the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Bharatiya Janta Yuva Morcha is organising NaMo Yuva Run at 75 locations across the country with participation of 10,000 to 15,000 youth in every location on September 21. The initiative is also aimed to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of drug abuse and also to encourage the use of 'Swadeshi' products. Announcing the launch of the programme, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Sunday that a similar event will be organised by the Bharatiya Yuva Diaspora in 75 cities around the world. Through this event, the youth of the country will connect with the soil (the nation) with resolve and remember the duty that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled towards the country in the last 11 years, Mandaviya told a press conference at the BJP headquarters. Actor-model Milind Soman, who has been officially appointed as the National Run Ambassador of the initiative, was present at the press conference and praised the initiative for promoting fitness among the youth. As Prime Minister Modi turns 75 on 17 September, the NaMo Yuva Run will serve to promote his fitness mantra across the nation. Mandaviya lauded Modi's tenure as Prime Minister, stating he has given a lot to this country over the past 11 years through his houghts and work. Today, the country is progressing, marching on the path of development, and a new India is in the making under Modi's leadership, the minister added. Also speaking at the media briefing, Tejasvi Surya said, It's Prime Minister Modi's 75th birthday on September 17. Perhaps, there is no bigger icon for fitness, good health and inspiration to the youth of this country than our prime minister. Highlighting the Modi governments efforts against drugs and addiction, Surya added, About 10 lakh kg of drugs have been seized and destroyed in just one year. From 2014 to 2024, total seizure of drugs all over the country swelled up to 22 lakh kg from 3.6 lakh kg between 2004 and 2014. By citing these figures, he remarked, This is how India is fighting the war on drugs and appealed to the youth to join the battle against the drug menace.
BJYM Launches 'Namo Yuva Run' For PM Modi's 75th birthday; 1 Million Likely To Participate
BJYM launches Namo Yuva Run on September 21 at 75 locations to mark PM Narendra Modi's 75th birthday, with Milind Soman as ambassador and focus on Nasha Mukt Bharat.
'Namo Yuva Run' campaign to mark PM Modi's 75th birthday, Milind Soman announced brand ambassador
LIVE: BJP MPs M Mandaviya & Tejasvi Surya hold Joint press Conference |Fit India| Milind Soman
IFS officer in Uttarakhand sues Cabinet Secretary over false affidavit, alleges defamation
DEHRADUN: In a dramatic escalation of a long-running bureaucratic dispute, Sanjeev Chaturvedi, the prominent Uttarakhand cadre Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and Magsaysay Award laureate, has initiated criminal proceedings against Indias top bureaucrat, Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan. Chaturvedi has accused Somanathan of filing a false affidavit and making defamatory remarks in court, seeking stringent criminal action from the Nainital High Court. The High Court is scheduled to hear the petition on September 16. This legal battle stems from a controversy dating back to Chaturvedis tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi. During his time there, he initiated several high-profile corruption investigations, which later became the subject of various legal challenges. The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), in February 2023, ordered the production of documents related to these AIIMS corruption cases. Following alleged non-compliance, CAT initiated contempt proceedings in May 2023 against both the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary. It is against this backdrop of alleged non-adherence to tribunal orders that the new legal challenge has emerged in the High Court. Chaturvedi has not only termed the writ petition filed by the Cabinet Secretary as baseless but also strongly objected to the allegations made within it. To substantiate his claims, he presented to the court a 2014 file noting from then Union Health Secretary Love Verma and Health Ministry CVO Vishwas Mehta. The document reportedly praised Chaturvedis integrity and dedication as outstanding. Speaking on the matter, Chaturvedi said, It is deeply unfortunate that the petition filed by the countrys Cabinet Secretary contains baseless and defamatory allegations. He added, The anti-corruption actions taken during my tenure were consistently affirmed in writing by top officials of the Health Ministry, confirming the integrity and merit of my work. The case underscores the ongoing friction between a decorated officer known for his anti-corruption stance and the highest levels of the bureaucracy, setting the stage for a closely watched legal battle in the coming weeks.
Somanna accuses Karnataka govt. of apathy; demands focus on relief, development
Kerala govt sets up first Senior Citizens Commission in India
Kerala has established the nation's first Senior Citizens Commission. This aims to safeguard the rights of elderly citizens. K Somaprasad is the chairperson of the Thiruvananthapuram-based commission. Amaravila Ramakrishnan and others are appointed as members. The commission will address neglect and exploitation faced by the elderly. It was formed under the Kerala Senior Citizens Commission Act, 2025.
MLC Kavitha suspended from BRS for disciplinary violation
Hyderabad, Sep 2: The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) today announced the suspension of MLC K. Kavitha from the party. In an official statement issued by BRS general secretaries Soma Bharat Kumar and T Ravinder Rao, it was confirmed that party president K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) took the decision citing disciplinary violations. Kavitha, daughter of KCR [] The post MLC Kavitha suspended from BRS for disciplinary violation appeared first on Northlines .
BRS Suspends MLC K Kavitha For Anti-Party Activities
Hyderabad, Sep 2: The BRS on Tuesday suspended its MLC K Kavitha from the party for her alleged anti-party activities. Kavithas father and BRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao has decided to suspend her with immediate effect, party General Secretary T Ravinder Rao and another General Secretary (in charge for disciplinary affairs) Soma Bharat Kumar said in a communication to the media. Kavithas behaviour in recent times and her anti-party activities are hurting the BRS. The leadership has taken serious note [] The post BRS Suspends MLC K Kavitha For Anti-Party Activities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Abundant Water In Somasila, Kandaleru Set To Irrigate 7 Lakh Acres: Somireddy
With water levels in Somasila reservoir crossing 62 TMC and Kandaleru reaching 36 TMC, farmers in Nellore district are set for a bumper agricultural season
Very few musicians like Bismillah Khan reach level of poetry in music
Sarod exponent Ustad Amjad Ali Khan believes there are some classical musicians who get into the grammar of music, others connect with its literature, but there are very few like shehnai maestro Bismillah Khan who can reach the level of poetry in their music. Khan was given the Bismillah Khan Samman at Yaad-e-Bismillah on August 20, an event organised by his disciple Soma Ghosh to commemorate the legacy of the shehnai legend, at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the [] The post Very few musicians like Bismillah Khan reach level of poetry in music appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Supreme Court bins plea against use of TN temple land for building college
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday declined to entertain an appeal against the Madras High Courts verdict allowing the Tamil Nadu government to utilise Sri Somanathaswamy Temples land on lease for building a government college in Kolathur in Chennai. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected a petition filed by TR Ramesh against the HCs division bench judgment of February 20, 2025. The issue of use of temple land by the state for building educational institutes in Tamil Nadu has been a political hot potato, with the DMK government defending the move and opposition parties slamming the government for allegedly misusing temple funds and resources gifted by the faithful for non-religious activities. Chief Minister MK Stalin is the legislator of the Kolathur Assembly seat where the college is proposed to be built. The Madras HC bench in October 2024 had upheld a single judges order which stated that the proposed long-term lease of 2.50 acres of land belonging to Sri Somanathaswamy Temple in Kolathur to Sri Kapaliswarar Temple in Mylapore for 25 years to establish an arts and science college was meant for running a college and, thus, the object being a benevolent one, the petitioner can submit his written objections or suggestions against such proposed lease before the Commissioner, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department. The petitioner, Ramesh, had challenged the HR&CE commissioners notification issued on September 3, 2024. HR&CE notification didnt provide any details on rent fixed on land belonging to Sri Somanathaswamy temple The petitioner claimed that it was done in violation of Section 34 of the TN HR&CE Act, 1959 and Rule 2 of Alienation of Immovable Trust Property Rules, 1960. After hearing senior advocates Haripriya Padmanabhan and Jaydeep Gupta for the petitioner and the respondents, respectively, the bench said, We are not inclined to interfere with the impugned judgment/order of the High Court. Accordingly, the Special Leave Petition is dismissed. In its plea, the petitioner contended that the notification did not provide any details regarding the amount of rent fixed or the manner in which the rent would be utilized for the benefit of the Sri Somanathaswamy Temple. The petitioner had said that the impugned notification was not in accordance with the seven rules prescribed in the GO (Ms No 866) dated February 15, 1960. Min welcomes order Chennai: HR&CE Minister PK Sekarbabu on Friday thanked the SC for dismissing the plea. After the DMK government assumed office, as many as 3,503 temples have been consecrated, and the number may go up to 4,000 by January 2026, he said
Somanahalli Nagaraju elected president of HDCC for third consecutive term
Manoj Jarange reaches Mumbai ahead of Maratha quota protest
MUMBAI: Maratha quota agitation leader Manoj Jarange reached Mumbai Friday morning, hours ahead of his protest at Azad Maidan in the city. Accompanied by hundreds of vehicles, Jarange, who began his march from his village in Jalna district on Wednesday, was welcomed at Vashi by supporters as he entered Mumbai. Thousands of his supporters have already reached Mumbai. Jarange left along with his supporters from Antarwali Sarati village , located over 400 km from Mumbai, to launch a fresh hunger strike. The 43-year-old has been demanding a 10 per cent quota for Marathas under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. Jarange has said his supporters would protest peacefully and not disrupt the ongoing Ganesh festival. He has been demanding that all Marathas be recognised as Kunbis 'an agrarian caste included in the OBC category' which will make them eligible for reservation in government jobs and education. The Jalna police allowed Jarange and his supporters to proceed with their march after imposing 40 conditions, directing them to avoid any law-and-order situations, not to cause disruptions to the movement of vehicles and desist from avoiding 'objectionable' slogans. Mumbai police have allowed Jarange permission to stage peaceful protests at Azad Maidan on August 29 between 9 am to 6 pm. At 6 p.m., all protesters will have to leave the site, police said. Police also stipulated that only five vehicles of protesters can head to Azad Maidan and the number of protesters there should not cross 5,000. Over 1,500 Mumbai police personnel have been deployed at Azad Maidan to maintain law and order ahead of Jarange's agitation, officials said. Security has also been beefed up at the nearby Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus where quota agitation supporters have arrived from Maharashtra's hinterlands, the railway police said. The Eastern Freeway and Sion-Panvel highway will be closed for all vehicular movement except emergency services on Friday in view of the protest. The order was issued by the Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) on Thursday evening, said an official. Panvel-Sion Road, V N Purav Road, Eastern Freeway, P D'Mello Road, Wallchand Hirachand Marg, Dr Dadabhai Nauroji Road and Hajarimal Somani Road will be closed for all types of vehicular traffic except emergency service vehicles, said the official. The order will be in force from 6 am on Friday till further orders, he added.
Record Water Availability In Nellore, Says Anam
Speaking to the media at his Santapeta camp office, he noted that Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs were brimming, holding 90 to 100 TMCft together.
Kulasekarapattinam launch complex expected to be ready by Dec'26: ISRO Chief
India is set to inaugurate its second launch complex in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu, by December 2026. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath announced plans for approximately 25 annual launches of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV), capable of carrying 500 kg payloads. This new spaceport, spanning 2300 acres, complements the existing facility in Sriharikota.
Genetic testing of IVF embryos can help women over 35 conceive faster
Genetic testing of IVF-created embryos could help more women over 35 have a baby in less time, according to a study on Monday. Researchers from Kings College London, UK, led the first randomised controlled trial worldwide to focus exclusively on women aged 35-42 a group at higher risk of producing embryos with chromosomal abnormalities. [] The post Genetic testing of IVF embryos can help women over 35 conceive faster appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Special cleanliness campaign 5.0 to prioritise e-waste disposal in government offices
NEW DELHI: This years Special Campaign on Swachhata (Cleanliness) will extend beyond routine scrap disposal and weeding out of outdated files, with a renewed focus on the removal of obsolete electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) such as defunct printers, discarded CPUs, computer monitors, and batteries occupying valuable office space. According to a note from Cabinet Secretary Dr. T.V. Somanathan sent to all ministries and departments, Special Campaign 5.0, aimed at institutionalising cleanliness and reducing pendency, will prioritise the scientific management of e-waste generated in government offices. Special attention will also be given to field and outstation offices that provide public services or maintain direct public interaction, in addition to central ministries, departments, attached and subordinate offices, autonomous bodies, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), which has led the annual initiative since its inception in 2021, has issued comprehensive guidelines for this years campaign. The month-long drive is set to begin on 2 October, focusing on cleanliness, space optimisation, and the disposal of pending matters across all government offices. This years edition will place special emphasis on the scientific disposal of e-waste in compliance with the E-Waste Management Rules, 2022. Offices will be required to identify and safely dispose of discarded computers, printers, laptops, LEDs, and other electronic equipment, said officials involved in the planning. Over the past four years, the campaign has facilitated the generation of 3,220 crore in revenue from scrap disposal, covered nearly 12 lakh sites in cleanliness efforts, and enabled the closure of over 1.37 crore files. The campaign will be carried out in two phases: The preparatory phase (1530 September) will involve the nomination of nodal officers, identification of pending matters, space management planning, assessment of scrap and e-waste, and finalisation of disposal procedures. The implementation phase will commence on 2 October, marking Mahatma Gandhis birth anniversary. During this period, offices will conduct cleanliness drives, dispose of e-waste, and clear backlogs including MPs queries, inter-ministerial notes, PMO references, and public grievances. In his directive, Dr. Somanathan emphasised the importance of leadership in ensuring the campaigns success. Your leadership and active involvement will be crucial for the success of the campaign, as seen in the past four years. Appropriate instructions may also be issued to all offices and organisations under your ministry/department for meaningful participation and successful implementation of Special Campaign 5.0, his letter to secretaries of all ministries stated.
Plantation workers pay homage to Vazhoor Soman
Peerumade MLA Vazhoor Soman passes away
He collapsed while attending a revenue assembly at PTP Nagar in Thiruvananthapuram and was rushed to a hospital but his life could not be saved.
EkinCare elevates Somak Ray to co-founder from vice president of operations
Wellness company ekincare has promoted Somak Ray, previously VP of Operations, to co-founder. Ray will now spearhead operational scaling, strategic partnerships, and international expansion. Since 2016, he has been instrumental in building the company's infrastructure, including leading a large-scale vaccination initiative and expanding the provider network, contributing significantly to ekincare's growth and market presence.
Somany Ceramics Confident Of High Single-Digit Revenue Growth Led By Enhanced Capacity Utilisation
The company is targeting capacity utilisation of 80-81% in FY26.
Somany Ceramics halts operations at Haryana facility amid GAIL pipeline leak
Somany Ceramics has suspended operations at its Kassar plant in Haryana due to a temporary gas supply disruption from GAIL following a pipeline leakage caused by heavy rainfall. GAIL has initiated restoration work, and Somany is monitoring the situation closely. The company assures that sufficient stock is available to meet sales demand, and all other plants remain operational.
Remembering 'Sholay': Dharmendras Pranks, Romances on Set, and That Epic Climax
The most chilling scene in my opinion is the revelation of the fake coin in the climax, writes Bhawana Somaaya.
A.P. CM calls for urgent flood precautions in view of heavy rain
Emphasising efficient use of the heavy inflows, Naidu orders diversion of up to four tmc ft of floodwater daily to Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs
Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route
SHILLONG, Aug 12: The Meghalaya government on Tuesday launched Shillongs first-ever public bicycle sharing (PBS) system, marking a major milestone towards sustainable urban mobility in the hill city. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with fitness icon Milind Soman, unveiled the initiative at a special programme. The PBS project, part of the Shillong Urban Mobility [] The post Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route appeared first on The Shillong Times .
86 and Thriving: Milind Somans Mom Usha Shows Youre Never Too Old to Be Fit!
Think age limits activity? Usha Soman, at 86, proves otherwise. She's a powerful example of an active and healthy lifestyle.
6 killed in air ambulance crash just outside Kenyas capital
NAIROBI, Aug 7: A plane belonging to an air ambulance service provider crashed in a residential area just outside Kenyas capital on Thursday, killing at least six people, according to a local official and the aircrafts owner. AMREF Flying Doctors said that the mid-size jet, a Cessna Citation XLS, took off from an airport in Nairobi and was heading to the territory of Somaliland when it crashed. The service provider didnt provide the number of casualties or a possible cause, [] The post 6 killed in air ambulance crash just outside Kenyas capital appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kerala Science Award 2023 presented to S. Somanath, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at R&D Summit organised by Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment
S Somanath called for the establishment of dedicated manufacturing hubs across India, stressing the critical absence of a comprehensive aerospace manufacturing framework. He underscored the pressing demand for skilled technicians in tooling and related sectors, while also highlighting the supply chain challenges that impede India's rocket production capabilities.
IISER Tirupati Holds 6th Convocation, Confers 255 Degrees
Delivering the convocation address, chief guest Samir Somaiya, chairman and managing director of Godavari Biorefineries and chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University congratulated the graduating students and praised the architectural design of the campus.
PEC confers Honorary Doctorate upon former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 4: In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of science and technology, the Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh conferred the Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on Dr S Somanath, former Chairman Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), today. The ceremony was presided over by Rajinder Gupta, Chairman, Board of Governors, PEC, in the gracious presence of Prof Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, director, PEC, Prof S K Mangal (Dean Academic Affairs) and Prof Uma Batra [] The post PEC confers Honorary Doctorate upon former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
